European clubs pursue Metz defender Aboubacar Lô amid strong performances

FC Metz faces the potential departure of central defender Aboubacar Lô, with several European clubs expressing strong interest in the Senegalese player as his contract nears its June 30 expiration.

Lô, a key member of Metz’s Senegalese contingent, has been attracting attention following a series of solid performances in recent weeks.

The 25-year-old has earned four consecutive starts, including three in Ligue 2 and one in the Coupe de France.

Despite Metz’s elimination in a 3-0 loss to Troyes in the fifth round, Lô’s contributions have not gone unnoticed.

Belgian side Mechelen, Swiss outfit Servette Geneva, and Portuguese club SC Braga are reportedly in discussions to secure the services of the Dakar-born defender.

This marks a stark contrast to his earlier career, where opportunities were limited.

Lô previously endured challenging loan spells at RFC Seraing in Belgium’s Challenger Pro League and SO Cholet in France’s National division.

Even after returning to Metz, he managed only 11 appearances over two seasons, totaling a modest 208 minutes and receiving a red card during the 2023-24 campaign.

Metz head coach Stéphane Le Mignan highlighted Lô’s transformation, stating, “He has speed and recovery qualities, but he initially struggled with mentality issues.”

Le Mignan now regards him as “the most complete of the three central defenders in the squad,” underscoring the player’s remarkable growth in recent months.

Lô’s development is a testament to his resilience, with his performances earning him both the trust of his coach and the interest of clubs abroad.

The defender’s journey began at Senegal’s renowned Génération Foot academy, a talent pipeline that has produced several standout players for Metz and beyond.

Metz faces a dilemma as Lô’s value rises. The Ligue 2 club has a narrow window to secure a transfer fee before his contract ends, but any move would also mean losing a key figure in their defensive lineup.

As negotiations progress, it remains to be seen whether Metz will capitalize on this opportunity or retain the player as they aim to strengthen their position in Ligue 2.

For Lô, a transfer could mark the next step in a career that has rapidly gained momentum.